2007 Leadership Nominations
Amy Vojta, Past President

Somewhere out there the 2008 Association of Fraternity Advisors President is reading this e-newsletter. Could it be you?

Throughout his summer, voting members of the Association will be asked to participate in our annual nominations and elections process. As those who comprise our volunteer ranks, I am depending on all of you to actively participate in this process.

It’s no secret that those who volunteer for AFA are the most engaged members of the Association. Volunteers develop our resources, facilitate our programs, write our articles and help us accomplish the important work of our strategic plan. Volunteers believe in the Mission and Vision of AFA. Should it surprise anyone then that the next Regional Directors and Board officers will come from our volunteer ranks? As our most engaged members, I’ll ask that that you continue your commitment to AFA by taking the following steps:

Participate in the nomination process.
In this year’s election we will be looking for qualified men and women to fill the roles of President-Elect, Executive Vice President, Vice President for Membership and for all five Regional Directors. As you consider the gifted men and women you have worked with as volunteers, please consider how their talents and skills may fit with the officer job descriptions found on the AFA website. If you know of a match between person and position I ask that you please submit a Nomination Form. The number of people you nominate is unlimited and completing the form takes less than a minute. Simply list the name of your nominee and the position you believe they should run for and send the form to me.

Consider running for a position.
Detailed position descriptions can be found on our website. As you consider qualified nominees for each position, I urge you to also consider nominating yourself as a candidate. (By the way, nobody ever knows if a candidate was self-nominated, so there is no shame in filling out your own form!) If you are nominated by another member don’t be quick to dismiss the idea of running for an office. Oftentimes we minimize our strengths and only focus on our weaknesses. In doing so, we talk ourselves out of taking a risk or trying something new. Be open to the feedback of your colleagues and consider your nomination as an affirmation of your talents and skills.

If what I’ve said isn’t enough to persuade you, consider the advice of other board members…

“Our Association needs good leaders to continue our good work in making a difference in the lives of our members and their students.”
– Ron Binder, AFA President

“Participating at the Board or Regional Director level is a time commitment. It is an honor and a privilege, not a popularity contest. The work of the board is hard work, real work, not just something to add to your resume or something that you should just do because others think that you should. You need to want to serve on the Board from your heart. Finally, it is FUN! The Board members have a great rapport and laugh a great deal during meetings, conference calls, and other interactions. If you are ready to work hard, grow professionally and have a great time this is an amazing opportunity.”
– Carrie Whittier, Executive Vice President

“Make an informed decision. Pick up the phone and call people who have held the position, are currently in the position, and the people that fall under the supervision of the position you are thinking of. I spoke to five different people before I finally decided to commit. Take the leap. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself for it later. It’s worth it.”
– Monica Miranda Smalls, Vice President for Resource Development

Remember, Nomination Forms are available on the AFA website, the deadline for submission is June 30th. If you have any questions about the process or positions, please contact any member of the Nominations & Elections Committee or Amy Vojta, Chair of the Committee.